Fresh Cucumber Tomato Salad

This vibrant cucumber tomato salad transforms simple ingredients into a refreshing side dish that perfectly complements any summer meal. The crisp vegetables combined with a tangy dressing create a light yet satisfying addition to your table.

I first created this salad for a backyard barbecue when temperatures soared past 90 degrees. The cool, crisp texture and bright flavors were such a hit that it's become my signature contribution to every summer potluck.

Ingredients

• English cucumber provides the perfect crunch without bitterness. Look for firm ones without soft spots
• Grape tomatoes offer sweet bursts of flavor and hold their shape better than larger varieties
• Red onion adds a pleasant bite that balances the milder vegetables. Choose firm onions with tight skin
• Fresh parsley brings color and a herbaceous note that brightens the entire dish
• Extra virgin olive oil forms the base of our dressing. Use a good quality one for better flavor
• Red wine vinegar provides necessary acidity. The tanginess balances the sweetness perfectly
• Granulated sugar or honey helps mellow the acidic elements and brings the dressing together
• Dried basil infuses everything with its aromatic qualities. Make sure yours is fresh and fragrant
• Salt and pepper are essential for enhancing all other flavors in the dish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the vegetables.

Slice cucumber into rounds and quarter them for bite sized pieces. The consistent size ensures every bite has balanced flavors. Cut grape tomatoes in half to release their juices which will mingle with the dressing. Slice red onion very thinly to distribute its flavor without overpowering.

Create the dressing.

Whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, sugar, dried basil, salt and pepper in a small bowl until fully combined. This balanced dressing with both acidic and sweet notes transforms simple vegetables into something special.

Combine everything.

Add all chopped vegetables to a large bowl, ensuring enough space to toss everything evenly. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and gently toss until every piece is coated. This step distributes flavors throughout the salad.

Chill and marinate.

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This resting period allows the vegetables to absorb the dressing flavors and for everything to meld together. The salad actually improves with a little time.

Save This

The red wine vinegar in this recipe is my secret weapon. I discovered its perfect balance with these vegetables after years of experimenting with different acidic ingredients. My family can always tell when I substitute something else. The sweet tang it creates against the fresh vegetables makes this simple salad exceptional.

Make It Your Own

This cucumber tomato salad welcomes customization based on what you have available. Try adding diced avocado for creaminess, crumbled feta cheese for saltiness, or chickpeas for protein. Just add these elements right before serving to maintain their texture and appearance.

Storage Tips

This salad will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days in an airtight container. The vegetables will continue to soften slightly and absorb more flavors from the dressing. Give everything a gentle toss before serving leftovers to redistribute the dressing that may have settled at the bottom.

Perfect Pairing Ideas

Serve this refreshing salad alongside grilled chicken, fish, or as part of a Mediterranean spread with hummus and pita. It also makes an excellent light lunch on its own during hot summer days. For a complete meal, add some grilled halloumi cheese or a scoop of quinoa to provide protein and make it more substantial.

Common Queries

→ Can I make this cucumber tomato salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad actually benefits from being made ahead. The recommended chilling time is 2 hours, which allows the vegetables to absorb the dressing flavors. You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance, but the cucumbers will soften slightly the longer it sits.

→ What can I substitute for red wine vinegar?

White wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or fresh lemon juice all work well as substitutes. Each will provide a slightly different flavor profile while maintaining the necessary acidity for the dressing.

→ Is this salad suitable for a keto diet?

With some modification, yes. Replace the sugar or honey in the dressing with a keto-friendly sweetener like stevia or erythritol. Tomatoes contain some carbs, so you might want to reduce the quantity slightly for strict keto adherence.

→ How long will this cucumber tomato salad keep in the refrigerator?

This salad will keep well for 2-3 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The vegetables will continue to soften and release liquid over time, so it's best enjoyed within the first 48 hours for optimal texture.

→ What protein would pair well with this salad?

This versatile salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, salmon, or shrimp. For a vegetarian option, try adding feta cheese or chickpeas to make it more substantial. The light, refreshing flavors complement most Mediterranean-inspired main dishes.

→ Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English cucumbers?

Yes, regular cucumbers work well too. Consider peeling them if the skin is thick or waxed, and you may want to remove the seeds if they're large. Persian cucumbers are another excellent alternative that doesn't require peeling or seeding.